Class 9 - Gastrointestinal System

Question 0

What would the assessment of the GI system look like in the older adult?

Answer 0

• past medical and family he
• nutritional intake (fluids and food)
• genetic predisposition
• current health concerns or issues
• current medications (Rx, OTCs and
  herbal)
• focused abdominal assessment
• bowel/bladder routines
• height and weight
• hydration/dehydration indications
• lab work ups

Question 1

What are some age-related changes to the GI system?

Answer 1

- changes in the functional ability of the  
      GI system
- decreased salivary production which
       can then lead to decreased 
       appetite
- taste buds decrease
- sense of smell diminishes

Question 2

Older adults are more susceptible to dehydration and/or malnutrition why?

Answer 2

• use of medications
• age related changes in:
  loss of taste/smell which
  deceased appetite
  lack of thirst
  poor tolerance to hot weather
  body composition (decrease
  In total body weight)

Question 3

Define diverticulitis

Answer 3

Inflammation of the diverticulum

Question 4

Define diverticulosis

Answer 4

Condition where the diverticula are present in the intestine without being inflamed.

Question 5

Define Barrett’s esophagus

Answer 5

This is where normal squamous epithelial cells of the esophagus are replaced with columnar epithelium.

This is considered precancerous lesions and places the patient at risk for esophageal cancer.

Question 6

Define barium swallow

Answer 6

A radiological test used to visualize the structures of the upper GI tract (the esophagus, stomach and duodenum)

Question 7

Define upper GI endoscopy

Answer 7

Procedure done where a long flexible tube that has a camera is used to see the lining of the upper GI tract (esophagus, stomach and duodenum)

Question 8

Define GERD

Answer 8

Gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD)

Occurs when part of the stomach’s acids or contents flows back up the esophagus causing irritation.

Question 9

Define hernia

Answer 9

When part of an organ is displaced and protrudes out thru the wall of the cavity that contains it

Question 10

Define hiatal hernia

Answer 10

Protrusion of an organ (usually the stomach) thru the esophageal opening in the diaphragm